Mycobacteria

From ArticleWorld

Mycobacteria belong to a genus of Actinobacteria. This group contains many pathogens that cause serious diseases in mammals. These organisms are classified into two major groups namely, the fast-growing kind and the slow-growing kind.

Characteristics

These organisms tend to be widespread and typically dwell in water and food sources. They can populate their hosts without any side effects and go undetected. They are aerobic bacteria and are acid fast. Their cell walls tend to be thick, hydrophobic and waxy as well as rich in mycolic acids. This cell wall contributes to the survival strength of this bacteria and its ability to survive in adverse conditions. The infections caused by these bacteria are difficult to treat because of their hard cell walls as well. They are resistant to many antibiotics and can survive exposure to acid, alkalis and detergents over long periods of time.

These organisms are difficult to culture and take up to two years to develop in some cases. There are also some species with long reproductive cycles making laboratory culture and study difficult.

Medical classification

They are divided into several groups for the purpose of diagnosing and treating infections caused by them. These are as follows:

• The tuberculosis mycobacteria
• The leprosy mycobacteria
• The non-tuberculosis mycobacteria

Pathology

M. leprae and M. tuberculosis are the major bacteria that cause leprosy and tuberculosis. They are chronic pathogens and cause diseases that can develop over years. These diseases without treatment result in slow and painful deaths. Leprosy and tuberculosis have been plaguing man for many years possibly as much as 10,000 years. They are also very hardy bacteria making treatment difficult. These diseases are also very contagious and pose a serious threat to humans.